179. From Harlem to Rock Hill: Derek and Broyny Vitatoe on Opening Work at Wheel

This week, Jamie Russo and Giovanni Palavicini sit down with Derek and Broyny Vitatoe, co-founders of Work at Wheel in Rock Hill, South Carolina, just days before their official opening.

Derek and Broyny left Harlem, New York with no idea where they'd open their coworking space. They just knew they wanted to blend corporate wellness, HR leadership, and their passion for movement into a space where people could work, move, and thrive.

This conversation is pure joy. Derek's the visionary who wanted bikes in every office. Broyny's the integrator who reins him in (lovingly). Together, they've built something special—and their journey to get here is a masterclass in perseverance, partnership, and trusting the process.

We talk about:

• How Shark Tank during the pandemic led to the Work at Wheel concept
• The moment they realized 5,000 square feet wouldn't cut it—and how they got to 16,000
• How Gio drove them around Houston looking at spaces (and why they walked away)
• The Rock Hill deal—and the negotiation that almost fell apart over occupancy limits
• Why community buy-in matters more in Rock Hill than hustle ever did in New York
• Derek's background as a spin instructor, HR executive, film director, and author (yes, really)
• How Broyny went from introvert to confidently leading tours and closing deals
• Their creative process for TikTok and Instagram content (and why they're both so good at it)
• The three things Broyny loves most about Derek (spoiler: generosity and energy top the list)
• How Derek proposed in Jamaica (and why Broyny says the ring was cubic zirconia)

This conversation is proof that coworking isn't just about desks and offices—it's about people, passion, and building something that reflects who you are.

If you're thinking about opening a space, wondering how long it really takes, or just need a dose of inspiration from two people who are all in, this episode is for you.

Resources Mentioned in this Podcast:

Work at Wheel website
Derek and Broyny on TikTok
Derek on LinkedIn
Broyny on LinkedIn

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